Texas LIHEAP 2026: CEAP and Your Local Community Agency
In Texas, LIHEAP is called the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program, or CEAP, and is delivered by local community action agencies rather than the state directly.
See also the Texas benefits hub.
Quick answer
To apply for LIHEAP in Texas: Texas runs LIHEAP as the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). Apply online or through a local CEAP provider that serves your county. Applying is free through the official agency.
How LIHEAP works in Texas
Texas brands its LIHEAP as the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP), run by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) through subrecipient local community action agencies that together cover all 254 counties. TDHCA serves no one directly — you apply through your local agency, which you can find on the state’s CEAP page or by calling 2-1-1.
CEAP helps pay utility bills for immediate energy needs and bundles in energy-cost education, with local agencies also handling crisis and emergency assistance. It runs year-round subject to funding rather than in a fixed heating season.
What LIHEAP is, who is eligible, and what it can pay toward are federal — those are covered in how to apply for LIHEAP. What is state-specific is the program’s name, who runs it, and where you apply.
What this program helps with
LIHEAP (the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps low-income households pay heating and cooling bills, and can help in an energy emergency such as a shut-off notice or being low on fuel. Some areas also offer weatherization to make a home more energy efficient.
Who may qualify
Eligibility is based on household income and size, and the rules and income limits vary by state. Many states also automatically qualify households that already receive SNAP, TANF, or certain other benefits. Funding is limited and the program has seasonal open and close dates, so apply early. Confirm the current income limits and dates on the official state site. We do not list dollar figures here because the official limits are set by your state and can change each season – always confirm the current numbers on the official site below.
How to apply in Texas
Texas runs LIHEAP as the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). Apply online or through a local CEAP provider that serves your county. You can usually start online, by phone, or in person, and a local office finalizes your application.
Documents you may need
Have ready: photo ID, Social Security numbers for the household, proof of income for everyone in the home, a recent energy or utility bill, and any shut-off or past-due notice. Bring copies and keep your originals.
What to expect after you apply
Applications are processed in the order received while funds last, so applying early in the season helps. If approved, the benefit is usually paid directly to your utility company or fuel provider and credited to your account. If you have a heating or cooling emergency, ask about crisis assistance, which is handled faster.
Official website / application link
TDHCA CEAP (Texas LIHEAP). Applying is free through the official agency – never pay a third party.
Related guides on GlobalBenefits.org
- Back to the energy assistance (LIHEAP) hub
- National LIHEAP guide
- Texas SNAP / food stamps
- Texas Medicaid
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to be behind on my bill to get LIHEAP?
No – regular LIHEAP helps with ongoing energy costs, while crisis assistance is for emergencies like a shut-off. You can apply before you fall behind.
Can renters apply?
Yes. Both renters and homeowners can apply as long as they are responsible for their home energy costs.
You can also confirm details and screen for programs at Benefits.gov and the federal LIHEAP (ACF) page. Applying is free through the official agency.
Last reviewed July 24, 2026 by the GlobalBenefits editorial team. GlobalBenefits is not a government agency; income limits, amounts, dates, and phone numbers are set by the official agencies above and can change – always confirm there before applying. See our corrections policy.
LIHEAP in other priority states: California · Florida · New York · Pennsylvania.